Fergie challenges Ronaldo to cash in on goal target

CRISTIANO RONALDO has been challenged by Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson to hit 30 goals this season.

The Portuguese winger has already scored 23 times in all competitions this campaign for the reigning Premier League champions and heads the top-flight scoring table with 17 goals.

The 22-year-old has shown great skill in front of goal despite playing down the wing and could record 30 if his present form continues with United still on course in the league, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League.

Ronaldo is set to feature in the FA Cup fourth-round clash with Tottenham on Sunday and Ferguson believes he has what it takes to reach the hefty target.

“With Ronaldo having scored 23 goals already, there is the potential for him to score 30 this season without question,’’ Ferguson said.

“He is not that far off and he has a strong chance of doing that.

“I’m sure that he is capable of scoring 30 league goals, though I think that is a different matter entirely.

And Ferguson, who last season lost a bet that Ronaldo would score 20 or less goals, added: “Achieving that would be more difficult and I don’t think that will happen. It is a big ask, but if he does manage it, I’ll pay him more money.’’

Meanwhile, Ferguson believes Manchester United are on course to retain their Premier League title — because they are defending even better than last season.

United are on equal points with Arsenal at the top of the table and last weekend’s 2-0 win at Reading means the Red Devils have won eight out of their last nine league games.

Ferguson said: “We had to work really hard and defend as a group.

“There’s a good understanding of the importance of the defensive part of our game and we’re better than we were last season in that sense.

“We’re into the run-in now. After new year the games start to drop off very quickly and before you know it you’re down to the last few. We’re trying to stay focused and not get carried away.

“The players know they’re going to have to work hard to win this title. But we’ve got a good squad and I think we’re improving.”

United’s chances should also be boosted by Owen Hargreaves saying he has completely shaken off the injury problems which dogged the first half of his season.

Hargreaves said: “It was good to be back. I feel positive and optimistic now. I’m looking forward to the next three of four months because I think Manchester United can have a fabulous season. I want to play every game.”